From saucy cities brimming with bars to monster waterfalls and all the steak you can eat, Argentina promises (and delivers) good times to all who come. Drink to a good drop in Mendoza, be blown away by the aquatic thundering of Iguazu Falls, take a gondola up a mountain in Salta and lose yourself to some hip shakin’ nights in the bars of Buenos Aires. It’s hard to imagine the continent of South America (or the world) without that flaming wedge known as Argentina.

Lock in your 2019 holiday for only €50!

Lock in your 2019 holiday for only €50!

Offer applies to trips departing before 14 December 2019.

1. EUR50 deposit offer must be redeemed between 17 January and 28 February 2019 and can be used on any 2019 trip with departure before 14 December.
2. Offer excludes Christmas departures from 14 December – 31 December 2019.
3. The deposit can be used towards any Intrepid small group adventure and Intrepid short breaks, with the below exclusions: Polar trips – includes all itineraries in the Arctic and Antarctica; Private groups; Gorilla treks where pre-purchased permits are required to secure the trek to see the Gorillas. Excluded trips are: Gorillas & Game Parks (YXOG), Gorillas, Game Parks & Beaches (YXOCC), Gorillas to Vic Falls (YXOIC), Africa Encompassed Southbound (YXOEC), Beaches, Game Parks & Gorillas (YXOGC), Vic Falls to Gorillas (YXOFC), Africa Encompassed Northbound (UXODC), Uganda Gorilla Short Break: Basix (YGAG), Mountain Gorillas of Rwanda (YGAR); Inca Trail trips where pre-purchased permits are required to secure the trek. Excluded trips are: Classic Peru (GGSD), Epic Ecuador, Peru & Bolivia (GGYQC), Epic Ecuador to Argentina via The Inca Trail (GGYCC), Epic Peru, Bolivia & Argentina (GGYBC), Epic Peru to Brazil (GGYDC), Epic South America (GGYEC), Essential Peru (GGYE), Essential Quito to Lima (GGYQ), Explore Peru & Bolivia (GGSUC), Galapagos & Inca Trail Adventure (GGTWC), Galapagos & Peru Adventure (GGSYC), Inca Encounter (GGKY), Inca Trail (GGTBC), Inca Trail & Amazon (GGSEC), Inca Trail Express (GGTA), Inca Trail Extension (GGHC), Machu Picchu Explorer (GGHT), Majestic Peru (GGKP), One Week in Peru (GGYC), Peru, Chile & Argentina Explorer (GGCLC), Peru Encompassed (GGSA), Peru Essentials (GGBL), Peru Family Holiday (GGFB), Real Peru (GGYA), Real Peru to Bolivia (GGYP), Sacred Land of the Incas (GGSQ), Six Days on the Inca Trail (GGYM). Normal deposits apply to these trips.
4. Balance is payable within 56 days of departure except for Intrepid Adventure Cruising departures which are payable within 90 days of departure.
5. Full name of passengers must be provided at time of booking. Passengers are not able to hold multiple departures for overlapping dates.
6. Offer applies to land element of tour only and cannot be redeemed against international flights.
7. The offer can only be applied to new bookings. Under no circumstances will the offer be applied to existing bookings or used in conjunction with another offer or discount.
8. Deposit amount is payable per person.
9. If the traveller wishes to change dates or tours, they will be required to pay the full EUR275 deposit (EUR400 deposit for Adventure Cruising, EUR75 deposit for 18 to 29s range) towards the new trip. This is applicable even inside the promotional period.
10. Prices, itineraries and inclusions are subject to change without notice. Standard booking conditions apply as per Intrepid website, www.intrepidtravel.com.
11. The trip is subject to availability and confirmation by Intrepid Travel at time of booking.
12. This offer is valid for residents of Europe (excl. UK and Switzerland) only.

Best time to visit Argentina

Best time to visit Argentina

Argentina's temperate climate means it experiences four distinct seasons. Summer (December to February) is the best time for visiting Patagonia as the weather is at its mildest. In contrast, summer can be very hot and humid in Buenos Aires, with spring and autumn offering milder weather. Autumn is a good time to visit Mendoza, Cordoba and the Lake District. The busiest times to travel in Argentina are during the main vacations - January, February and July.

Food and drink

Food and drink

As many other aspects of Argentinian culture, its cuisine has been heavily influenced by European immigration. Mix Spanish and Italian favourite dishes with Argentina top quality (and affordable!) beef and dairy products and you have a combination worth jumping on that long-haul flight for. For the low-down on all things food in South America, check out our guide that we put together here.

It’s important to keep in mind that dinner is eaten late in Argentina. Most restaurants close in the afternoon and do not reopen until 8 pm, though locals typically do not actually begin dinner until 9 or 10 pm.

Must-try food and drink in Argentina

1. Asado

With Spanish origins, asado describes succulent barbequed meat, slow-cooked on a metal frame over an open fire or a bed of hardwood charcoal. In Argentina, asado is in equal parts a dish and a social gathering – both of which you will want to experience.

2. Provoleta

Soft provolone cheese is grilled in a skillet and topped with oregano, chilli flakes or other herbs. A typical asado starter, provoleta is crisp on the outside, warm and gooey on the inside and delicious all-around.

3. Chimmichurri

A piquant combination of diced garlic, chopped parsley and oregano, olive oil and vinegar, this classic Argentinean condiment is the quintessential accompaniment to grilled meat.

4. Malbec wine

Argentina has one of the world’s most renowned wine regions. Malbecs from the wineries of Mendoza are famous around the world (and happen to pair well with steak), though other provinces also produce quality wines, including torrontes from Cafayate and syrahs from San Juan.

5. Alfajores

Argentina’s favourite sweet biscuit. Two round shortbreads, filled with dulce de leche (a decadent caramel made from condensed milk), often coated in chocolate.

6. Helado

Argentineans take ice cream seriously. Do not miss helado de dulce de leche, the national flavour of Argentina.

7. Dulce de leche

Condensed milk is slowly reduced and sweetened to create a thick, sticky caramel. Find it in alfajores (crumbly biscuit sandwich filled with dulce de leche), dessert empanadas, drizzled on ice cream or just eat it by the spoonful!

Culture and customs

Culture and customs

Like many other aspects of Argentinian life, its culture and customs are influenced by the waves of European immigration that landed here in the 1880s and during the two World Wars. As a result of immigration, parts of the country feel notably more ‘European’ than other areas of South America.

Argentinians are famously affectionate, loud, passionate about football, and big fans of a good plate of homemade spaghetti. They have strong ties with family and friends, and the major religion is Catholicism.

As a general guide, these are some key things you should know about Argentina:

A kiss on the cheek is the most common way of greeting someone – particularly a friend but it’s not uncommon between strangers, particularly if being introduced by a mutual friend. This is true whether it’s female on female, female on male or male on male.

If you befriend someone, expect a farewell hug and greeting hug thereafter. Again, this is true whether it’s female on female, female on male or male on male.

Expect to be late. Being late for social or cultural events is almost fashionable in Argentina but it can be an annoyance for travellers.

Siesta time is still common, particularly in provinces such as Mendoza, San Juan, Salta. Shops may close from 1pm to 4pm and reopen until around 8-9pm. Dinner with locals can be very, very late. Having dinner at 9pm, 10pm and 11pm is perfectly normal and accepted in Argentina, but can cause a few rumbling tummies with travellers. The best thing to do is keep some snacks with you and try and fall into the local pattern.

Nightlife is well and truly nightlife. Pubs, clubs and events don’t kick off until 1-2am…no kidding!

The majority of Argentinians are Catholic (between 70-80%), and you should be respectful when visiting churches, cathedrals and religious events. The dress code at religious sites is quite relaxed and no one will get in trouble for attending mass in t-shirt, shorts and thongs. However, closed shoes and trousers are preferred. Swimwear is a big no-no and it can be very offensive to the locals.

The Falkland Islands war is a topic that still evokes raw emotions amongst Argentinians and it's well-advised not to raise the topic with people you don’t know.

Geography and environment

Geography and environment

Bordered by Chile, Bolivia, Paraguay, Brazil and Uruguay, Argentina is South America's second largest country. With a vast range of natural environments, travelling in Argentina presents a revolving door of terrain and landscapes. From the giant glaciers and icy lakes of Patagonia to the green grasslands of the Pampas; and the lofty Andes of the north to the steamy wetlands of the north-east, Argentina contains a wealth of biodiversity.

Top picks

Top picks

Top 5 Tango Spots of Argentina

1. Confiteria Ideal

Be charmed by the grand building, old waiters, genuine tango classes and shows that this Buenos Aires institution has been producing for more than 100 years. It might be a bit rough around the edges but authenticity is guaranteed in this historic gem.

2. Barrancas de Belgrano

On the weekends, head to this leafy park at dusk to see unpretentious locals tango as the sun sets. Try out your tango steps, mix and mingle with Argentines and tourists, and enjoy the casual, fun vibe that proliferates under the park's gazebo.

3. Plaza Dorrego

This relaxed San Telmo favourite is a top spot for alfresco people-watching, tango viewing, wine drinking and socialising.

4. La Catedral

For a slice of old Argentina, head to this bewitching warehouse of kitsch where you can learn the art of tango with locals amid walls of old posters and a giant glowing, red heart. Lessons are taught in Spanish and while the dancers here may not be technically great, their passion and love of tango is unquestionable.

5. Caminito

Purists may dismiss La Boca's showy street performers as 'tacky tangoists' but the colourful streets, flamboyant moves and suave outfits do have a bit of flair and provide quintessential Buenos Aires photo ops.

Shopping

Shopping

Many stores in Argentina allow travellers to shop tax-free. Look for a blue and white ‘Tax Free’ sign in store windows and make sure to ask for a Global Blue refund form when making your purchase. Get this form validated by a customs official at the airport when you are leaving the country (they’ll want to see the item and receipt as well), then take it to the Global Blue refund office to get your money back. It’s a bit of a lengthy process, but might be worth the effort depending on how much shopping you do. Find more information here.

Keep in mind that siesta is still common in some parts of Argentina. Many stores will close for a few hours in the afternoon and reopening times can be unpredictable.

Things to buy in Argentina:

Leather goods

Leather goods are normally top of the shopping list for every traveller to Argentina – and rightly so! The quality of leather products is excellent and prices can be significantly cheaper than at home. The most popular items are jackets, handbags, shoes, boots and belts. A word of warning though – be wary of cheap imitations!

Mate cup set

A popular tourist shop item, cups may be sold on their own with a straw, or as a set with loose-leaf mate as well. Quality and design can vary, so it pays to shop around

Wine

A good bottle of Argentina’s famed malbec can be bought for less than USD 10.

Festivals and events

Festivals and events

Buenos Aires Tango Festival

Passion oozes from Buenos Aires’ streets as tango fills the city each August. Open-air milongas (dances), film screenings, dance classes and competitions featuring world-class dancers are all part of this sizzling two-week event.

Fiesta de la Vendimia (Grape Harvest Festival)

This week-long celebration to kick off Mendoza’s grape-picking season is a barrel of fun! Held each March, the festival features parades, folkloric events and a grand coronation, as hopefuls vie to be chosen as the new Harvest Queen.

Carnaval (or Carnival)

Huge crowds turn up ready to have a good time for carnival celebrations in cities across Argentina. Like in Brazil, parades are a cacophony of colours, featuring feathered and sequined costumes and elaborate floats. Taking place in either February or March (right before Ash Wednesday), the best parties are in Gualeguay-chu and Corrientes.

Dia de la Tradicion (Day of Tradition)

Argentina’s beret-clad, nomadic cowboys, otherwise known as gauchos, are something of a national symbol. Each year on November 10th, they are celebrated with horsemanship shows, folk music, dancing, tons of barbequed meat and a big gaucho parade in San Antonio de Areco, the symbolic centre of gaucho culture.

Health and safety

Health and safety

Intrepid takes the health and safety of its travellers seriously, and takes every measure to ensure that trips are safe, fun and enjoyable for everyone. We recommend that all travellers check with their government or national travel advisory organisation for the latest information before departure:

From New Zealand?

From US?

The World Health Organisation

Common scams:

Snatch and run:

This scam is where a thief (either quietly or sharply and fast) snatches victims belongings such as phones and cameras resting at a restaurant or café’s table – particularly while seating outside. While dinning outside, make sure you keep your belonging in your bag and your bag at your feet.

Ride-by:

This is a common scam in Buenos Aires where a thief riding a bike or motorbike snatches a traveller’s camera or bag. To avoid this, walk on the shops side of the footpath and keep back from the street when waiting to cross a road.

Stain on shirt:

This is a sophisticated form of pick-pocketing where passer-by “accidentally” spills a drink or food on unsuspecting victims. The thief then offers help cleaning up robbing you from your belongings in the process. If this was to happen to you, simply keep walking, accept no help from strangers.

Taxi:

The vast majority of taxi drivers in Buenos Aires are honest and hardworking people. However, there is a small number of them that will target travellers overcharging them or handing back counterfeit bills. To avoid this problem order taxis from hotels, restaurants or flag them at official taxi ranks.

Further reading

Further reading

Title

Author

Needle in a Haystack

Ernesto Mallo

The Buenos Aires Broken Hearts Club

Jessica Morrison

Long After Midnight at the Nien Bien

Brian Winter

The Tao of Tango

Johanna Siegmann

Santa Evita

Tomas Eloy Martinez

Far Away and Long Ago: A Childhood in Argentina

W. H Hudson

On Argentina

Jorge Luis Borges

Argentina travel FAQs

Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveller. Entry requirements can change at any time, so it's important that you check for the latest information. Please visit the relevant consular website of the country or countries you’re visiting for detailed and up-to-date visa information specific to your nationality. Check the Essential Trip Information section of the itinerary for more information.

Western-style flushable toilets are the norm in Argentina. It’s a good idea to carry your own toilet paper and hand sanitizer, as they are not always provided. Some hotels and restaurants might have signs asking you to not flush toilet paper – the toilets are modern but the plumbing is not and clogs easily.

Major credit cards are widely accepted in Argentina’s large cities and towns, but may not be accepted in small towns and rural areas. Make sure to carry enough cash when visiting these parts in case credit cards are not an option.

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

As a whole, Argentina is a welcoming destination for LGBTQI-travellers. In 2010, the country became the first Latin American nation to legalise same-sex marriage and Buenos Aires hosts the largest annual gay pride parade in South America. A number of hotels, B&Bs, bars and nightclubs catering to the LGBTQI community can be found in Buenos Aires as well. Though parts of the country, particularly smaller towns are less tolerant. When in doubt, use discretion outside of large cities.

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting Equaldex or ILGA before you travel.

Responsible Travel

Intrepid is committed to travelling in a way that is respectful of local people, their culture, local economies and the environment. It's important to remember that what may be acceptable behaviour, dress and language in your own country, may not be appropriate in another. Please keep this in mind while travelling.

Top responsible travel tips for Argentina

Be considerate of Argentina’s customs, traditions, religion and culture.

For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Instead, fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water.

Always dispose of litter thoughtfully, including cigarette butts.

Learn some local language and don't be afraid to use it - simple greetings will help break the ice.